Recall S1+

FAQ

WHY IS ORTOVOX RECALLING THE S1+ AVALANCHE TRANSCEIVER?

Individual feedback after search training and intensive follow-up inspections have shown that in very rare cases, a disturbance can occur in the transmission function in the ORTOVOX S1+ avalanche transceiver. The reason for this is the possible failure of a component. In order to eliminate any risk for our customers, we have decided on a precautionary recall so that the affected component can be replaced.

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY S1+ AVALANCHE TRANSCEIVER IS AFFECTED?

The recall affects all ORTOVOX S1+ avalanche transceivers, regardless of the serial number, year of manufacture, software version, or where and when the device was purchased. Its predecessor the ORTOVOX S1 and all other ORTOVOX avalanche transceivers are unaffected.

MY S1+ AVALANCHE TRANSCEIVER IS WORKING FINE. CAN I CONTINUE TO USE IT?

NO! You must stop using the S1+ avalanche transceiver immediately. There is no longer any guarantee that the S1+ avalanche transceiver will function properly when used. Your S1+ may not be used anymore without the required component being replaced.

HOW WILL REPLACING THE COMPONENT GUARANTEE THE SAFETY OF MY S1+?

The affected component will be replaced with an improved component from a different supplier. This rules out the possibility of the defect occurring again. After replacing the component, 100% functionality of the S1+ can once again be guaranteed.

WILL I HAVE TO PAY REPAIR OR SHIPPING COSTS?

NO. ORTOVOX assumes all costs for shipping and for replacing the component.

PROCESSING STATUS

The ORTOVOX service center in Germany has begun the precautionary modification of the devices. Because of the large number of devices, the processing time is currently ~6 weeks. The devices sent in will be processed in the order in which we have received them. Please send in your device in good time so that we can modify it for you before you need to use it again.

CAN I USE A RENTAL DEVICE FROM ORTOVOX FOR THE REST OF THE SEASON?

Unfortunately, we only have a limited number of rental devices for urgent use. We ask for your understanding that we must first equip mountain rescue teams and emergency personnel with rental devices, because they are used every day and are therefore essential. If you still require a rental device from us, we will send it to you with an invoice and terms of payment. This will be refunded when the device is returned.

WHERE DO I FIND THE SERIAL NUMBER ON MY DEVICE?

Choose settings in the menu, then the info symbol. The serial number consist of 8 letters and numbers.

Switch your S1+ to transmit mode

After the selftest press the menu button for 3 seconds

Select the symbol “settings”

Switch to the symbol “information”

Your S1+ serial number is in the first line (8-characters)

COULD THERE BE A SIMILAR DEFECT IN THE 3+ AND ZOOM+ AVALANCHE TRANSCEIVERS, OR IN PREVIOUS S1 MODELS?

NO. The potentially affected component is used exclusively in the ORTOVOX S1+. There are no risks when using any other ORTOVOX avalanche transceiver.

HOW WAS THE PROBLEM IDENTIFIED? HAVE THERE BEEN CASES WHERE AN S1+ AVALANCHE TRANSCEIVER HAS NOT FUNCTIONED PROPERLY AND CAUSED AN ACCIDENT?

NO, there have been no accidents. The defect was detected and the cause for the error identified thanks to individual feedback after search training and intensive follow-up inspections.

WHY WASN’T THE DEFECT DISCOVERED EARLIER IN THE PROCESS?

Our avalanche transceivers and their components undergo 100% comprehensive quality control and are tested several times for functionality before distribution. The affected component showed no anomalies during any of these tests. From our current examination we know that the disturbance can be traced back to a defective component that could not have been identified during production.

HOW CAN I TELL IF THE COMPONENT HAS ALREADY BEEN REPLACED IN AN S1+?

A revamped S1+ can be recognized by the green border around the menu button and the horizontal green bar beside it. These graphics are white in devices that are yet to be revamped.

WHO CAN I CONTACT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

In addition to the information on our website, you can also contact us with your questions at recall@ortovox.com and on +49-89-666 74-215. We are available on Monday-Friday from 9.00 - 12.00 and 13.00 - 17.00.

For Canada and USA:

ORTOVOX is committed to answering your questions and helping all consumers through this process as easily and efficiently as possible. Please follow this link.